Production of space in rural China: village revitalization and cultural landscape transformation in Chongqing, China

Abstract

This study investigates the spatial production of rural cultural landscapes in traditional Chinese villages amid rapid urbanization. Drawing on Henri Lefebvre’s spatial production theory, the research examines how material, social, and symbolic dimensions interact to shape the evolving landscape of Lotus-Cave Village in Chongqing, China. Employing a mixed-methods approach–including in-depth interviews, participant observation, and archival research–the study explores the dual processes of cultural revitalization and adaptive reuse. Empirical findings reveal that while longstanding kinship networks and ancestral heritage continue to influence spatial arrangements, contemporary economic pressures and urban expansion drive significant modifications. Residents recount how traditional festivals and rituals are being reimagined through modern artistic practices, fostering renewed community cohesion. Adaptive restoration efforts have transformed dilapidated ancestral halls into multifunctional cultural centers, and neglected public spaces have been reconfigured to promote social interaction. This research advances existing scholarship by extending Lefebvre’s framework to rural contexts, challenging the conventional dichotomy between preservation and development. The insights offer practical implications for policymakers and planners seeking to harmonize cultural heritage conservation with sustainable rural revitalization.